Posted by Diane Capuano
In less than 30 days, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rule requiring that contractors be lead-certified goes into effect. The rule requires that contractors be certified in lead-safe work practices by EPA-accredited trainers when doing renovation work in pre-1978 homes or in child-occupied facilities where there is the possibility of lead exposure. Firms doing the renovation must have one or more certified individuals doing the work or face penalties including fines as high as $32,500 and/or face possible imprisonment.
The effective date for the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program rule is April 22, 2010. The exception is contractors and training providers working in Wisconsin, Iowa or North Carolina. These states are authorized to administer their own RRP programs in lieu of the federal program. Contractors must contact the state to find out more about their specific training and certification requirements.
California Paints has been taking a pro-active role by hosting training sessions for painting contractors so that they will be in compliance with this new rule. The training is being provided by the Institute for Environmental Education (IEE), New England’s largest environmental trainer. IEE is fully accredited by the U.S. EPA to conduct this eight-hour course. Classes, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays extending from February to April, have filled up fast. Contact California Paints at (978) 623-9980, x 211 for class availability, fees and registration.
For more information, visit the EPA link that describes the requirements of the rule.
